Winter, Water and the Wise One: Find Harmony with the Seasonal Energy of Winter

We are part of the natural world. The more we live in harmony with seasonal energy, the more we support our overall health and wellbeing.

The seasonal energy of winter continues the contraction and inward movement that began in the fall. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), winter resonates with the Water element. It is the nature of water to soak in and descend to the depths; it represents the deepest level of our energetic system. Winter and the Water element remind us that this is a time to slow down, turn inward, rest, conserve energy, and replenish our inner resources.

“Water is the softest thing, yet it an penetrate the earth and mountains.”— Lao Tzu

Water represents the very essence of life. Without water, life cannot survive. It is deep, dark, and mysterious—symbolic of the unknown. The color associated with the Water element is black or the deepest blue, like the inky depths of the sea. Emotionally, Water is associated with fear—the primal fear of not surviving the unknown. In its healthy expression, fear ensures survival. However, excessive fear—often arising from trauma, chronic stress, or nervous system dysregulation—can suppress the immune system and deplete our vital life essence, known in TCM as Jing, which is housed in the Kidneys on the energetic level.

Physiologically, the Kidneys—together with the bladder—regulate the body’s water and fluid systems. On a more subtle or quantum level, Jing represents our ancestral inheritance. It carries the genetic and evolutionary wisdom of countless generations—lifetimes of adaptation and survival encoded within our DNA. This ancestral “know-how” resides in the Kidney energy system. Jing is considered fixed in quality and quantity at birth, which is why conserving energy—especially in winter—is so essential. Jing is the fuel that powers the human will: the will to survive and the will to align with the deeper destiny of the soul.

To align with personal destiny, we must face our fears. It is no coincidence that the archetype associated with the Water element is the Sage—often depicted as a Wise Woman, Wise Man, or Elder in the winter season of life. The Sage embodies the capacity to transform fear and doubt into wisdom and trust. This archetype understands when to conserve energy and when to act, ensuring survival while living in alignment with deeper truth.

Nothing can expand indefinitely without first contracting. Winter’s rest stores the energy that allows new life to burst forth as the Fire element rises in spring. So, slow down. Prioritize quiet, rest, and reflection. Sink deeply within and tap into your innate potential to access the Water element’s virtues of strength, resilience, courage, and wisdom. These qualities will support you as you move forward when the energy shifts again.

In the meantime, simple winter self-care practices—such as staying cozy, keeping your kidneys and feet warm, and nourishing yourself with healthy, warming foods—can go a long way in supporting your body, mind, and spirit through this season.